Czersk

Czarże is a village (sołectwo) in the Kuyavian-Pomeranian Voivodeship, belonging to the administrative district of Gmina Dąbrowa Chełmińska. Its history dates back to 1222, when it was mentioned in documents related to the endowments granted by Duke Konrad of Masovia to the missionary bishop of Prussia. In Czarże, there is a Gothic church dedicated to the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, built at the turn of the 13th and 14th centuries, renowned for its Baroque furnishings. Surrounding the church are a monument of John Paul II, as well as Catholic and Evangelical cemeteries with tombstones dating back to the 19th century. Czarże also served as a center for crafts and trade, and today it is the second largest village in the municipality, with a population of 1,052 (as of 2011). The village stands out for its natural values, surrounded by forests and the floodplains of the Vistula River, with nature reserves located nearby. Czarże is well-connected to tourist trails, including the Vistula Bicycle Route. During the Prussian period, the village was divided into Czarże Szlacheckie (Noble) and Czarże Królewskie (Royal). In the 20th century, particularly during World War II, it played a role in the resistance movement. The village is the birthplace of Piotr Konieczka, the first Polish victim of World War II. Czarże showcases a blend of rich history, culture, and natural values, making it an interesting point on the regional map.